Credit: Premier League
The maiden game of Premier League 2025-26 between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield witnessed the emotional side of the former team’s players and supporters who paid tribute to their legend Diogo Jota, who along with his brother Andre Silva, died in a car crash in the province of Zamora in Spain on July 3. Prior to the start of the season opener, Liverpool fans displayed placards and began raising the slogans of "DJ20" and "AS30" in a couple of stands during a period of silence to honour Jota and his brother Silva. Liverpool players also stood arm-in-arm and formed the center circle. Reds’ manager Arne Slot and stalwarts from both teams also wore black armbands.
Liverpool’s star player Mohamed Salah also couldn’t hold his emotions as the camera captured him shedding tears while remembering his late teammate. The Egyptian was the last to leave the pitch as he participated in tearful rendition of Jota's chant. Like Salah, Jota was also an attacking player who was known for scoring while playing as forward or winger. In the past, both illustrious players were seen celebrating Liverpool’s success together several times.
Liverpool kick off their title defense with 4-2 win
In the opening game of the Premier League 2025-26, Liverpool held the momentum for more than the first-half. Hugo Ekitike notched up the first goal for The Reds in the 37th minute. Following the French, Cody Gakpo also scored for defending champions in the 49th minute. However, the game became intriguing when Antoine Semenyo racked up a couple of goals for Bournemouth until the 76th minute.
With the scores levelled at 2-2, Federico Chiesa stepped up for The Reds and scored in the 88th minute. Salah also chalked up a goal in the extra time and took the game away from Bournemouth completely. Eventually, reigning champions Liverpool secured a 4-2 triumph in the contest. After this success, Liverpool will get a 11-day hiatus as their next outing is against Newcastle at St James’ Park.
